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World Soil Day (WSD) is observed annually on 5 December to raise global awareness about the importance of healthy soils and to promote the sustainable management of soil resources. The observance is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and endorsed by the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

History and Background

• The idea of a global day dedicated to soil conservation was first proposed in 2002 by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS).
• FAO promoted the initiative, and in 2013 the FAO Conference endorsed the proposal and sought formal UN recognition.
• The UN General Assembly officially designated 5 December 2014 as the first World Soil Day.

Theme for 2025

“Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”

The 2025 theme highlights the critical role of urban soils in supporting sustainable cities. It shifts attention from rural agriculture to the often-overlooked soils beneath urban environments.

Importance of Healthy Soils

Soils are a life-sustaining resource essential for:

• Food production
• Water filtration and groundwater recharge
• Carbon storage and climate regulation
• Biodiversity support
• Nutrient cycling

In urban areas, healthy soils help mitigate:

• Urban heat island effect
• Flooding by acting as natural water sponges
• Pollution through filtration of contaminants
• Food insecurity through urban agriculture

Extent of Soil Degradation

Despite their importance, soils are under severe stress:

• The FAO estimates that nearly one-third of the world’s soils are degraded.
• Urban soils face compaction, contamination, and sealing by concrete, reducing their ecological functions.
• Unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, and land misuse further worsen soil erosion and nutrient depletion.

Global Soil Conservation Efforts

1. Global Soil Partnership (GSP):An FAO-led initiative aimed at improving soil governance and promoting sustainable soil management worldwide.

2. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD):Works to prevent land degradation and achieve Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) by 2030.

India’s Soil Conservation Initiatives

India has launched multiple programmes to protect and restore soil health:

• Soil Health Card Scheme: Provides farmers with soil nutrient analysis to encourage balanced fertiliser use.
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Promotes organic farming to maintain soil fertility.
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Improves water management and reduces soil erosion.
• Watershed Development Programmes: Enhance soil moisture and prevent land degradation.
• MGNREGA land works: Support soil and water conservation at the local level.
• Smart Cities Mission: Encourages green infrastructure, open spaces, and soil-friendly urban planning.